CPEC phase-II to begin soon, says Chinese diplomat

Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren announced that the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project will commence soon, promising prosperity for the region. He made this statement while addressing the national conference on '73 Years of Pak-China Diplomatic Relations: Achievements and Way Forward,' organised by Punjab University's School of Communication Studies at Hameed Nizami Hall. In his address, Zhao Shiren emphasized China's continued support for Pakistan on defense and national security issues, expressing hope that Pakistan will soon become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. He mentioned that Federal Minister of Pakistan Prof Ahsan Iqbal is scheduled to visit China soon to meet with Chinese authorities and investors to attract investment in Pakistan. Additionally, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is set to make a significant visit to China at the beginning of June. Zhao Shiren highlighted the cooperation between China and Pakistan in sectors such as mining, IT, and energy. He recalled that Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to recognise China's independent status in 1951, a historic milestone that the Chinese nation deeply appreciates. Over the past 73 years, a relationship of trust has developed between the governments and peoples of both countries. The consul general assured ongoing cooperation with the Punjab government to promote educational, economic, and cultural relations. Dr Noshina Saleem praised China's significant role in Pakistan's socio-economic development, reflecting the deep, generational friendship between the two nations. She noted China's consistent support for Pakistan on international issues, including the Kashmir conflict. Kashif Anwar commended China's contribution to Pakistan's development at various levels, describing CPEC as a transformative project that will create numerous opportunities for trade, investment, and employment. Dr Mahmoodul Hassan emphasized that CPEC and the One Belt One Road initiative will further strengthen bilateral relations and stabilize the economy, highlighting the increase in exports between the two countries over the past 27 years. Dr Mian Hanan described the CPEC Corridor project as a gift to the region's people, marking the beginning of a new chapter of prosperity. The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate 73 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. Published in The Express Tribune, May 21st, 2024.  

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